A Comparison of Traditional Preschool and Montessori

 

MONTESSORI

Flexible curriculum

Allows the child t o learn at his own pace

Child free to discover on his own

Scientific method of teaching

Reality orientated

Specific places for materials - sense of order

Child chooses activities according to inner needs

Child-centered learning environment

Self-education through self-correcting materials

Recognition of sensitive periods in each child

Multi-sensory materials to develop specific skills

Liberty to move about self and furniture

Liberty to speak (without disturbing others) as he pleases

Focus on developing the childs wholesome personality

TRADITIONAL

Rigid Curriculum

Progresses at the teachers pace

Constant guidance by teacher

Non scientific

Much role-play and fantasy

Random placement – not necessary to return to specific place

Teacher decides what the child has to learn

Teacher-centered learning environment

Use of reward and punishment in motivation

All children are treated alike

Play materials for non-specific skills

Rigid rules not to move furniture and to sit in designated places

Silence is on many occasions enforced

Focus on imparting maximum quantum of knowledge

 

Trevor Eissler "Montessori Madness!"